Tech:NYC’s Statement on Governor Hochul Signing S.9051B

October 28, 2026

Tech:NYC issued the following statement after Governor Kathy Hochul signed S.9051B: 

“We share the Governor’s goal of keeping kids safe online. But signing a deeply flawed bill despite repeated warnings about its consequences is a failure to deliver on that goal. This bill could force companies to restrict minors’ access to tutoring tools, homework help, coding assistants, and, arguably worst of all, career platforms — cutting our youngest New Yorkers off from resources that support their education and prepare them for the workforce.

The bill’s vague language and restrictions raise serious First Amendment concerns. Its age verification requirements could also expose more sensitive personal information, including children’s data, which undermines the privacy protections this legislation is supposed to provide.

The Governor’s office had an opportunity to address these problems through the chapter amendment process and failed to do so. These are substantive concerns with real consequences for kids, families, and the companies expected to comply. New Yorkers deserve clear, workable safeguards, and we will continue pressing the Governor and the Legislature to fix what they have left unresolved.”